Good teachers, a great environment conducive to learning. . . These are often things we hear from our alumni. Dalhousie University and the International Medical University of Malaysia have had a partnership for over 20 years. Each year, six IMU students are eligible to complete third- and fourth-year clerkships at Dalhousie leading to a Canadian Medical Doctorate degree. The program is managed through the Glboal Health Office. See what some of our recent alumni are doing now!
Dr. Randy Aung, MD (IMU – Class of 2014)
Where are you originally from?
I was born and raised in Myanmar (Burma). When I was fifteen, I moved to Singapore, where I completed high school. In 2009, I started my medical studies in International Medical University (IMU) in Malaysia before transferring to Dalhousie Medical School in 2012.
Why did you choose Nova Scotia/Dalhousie?
When I was doing my research on different partner medical schools, I was fascinated with the hands-on North American medical curriculum. I chose Dalhousie mainly because I wanted to pursue residency and fellowship training in North America.
What was the value of participating in the IMU Clerkship program at Dalhousie?
As a medical student, you are given full responsibility for the care of your patients (under the supervision of the staff physicians and residents, of course). You are treated as a member of the team and are able to directly contribute during rounds. Despite the long and demanding working hours, the hands-on experience that you get from the clinical rotations are highly rewarding and will help bridge the gap between medical school and residency.
Where are you currently located and what are your involved in?
I am currently working on a Master degree in Community Health and Epidemiology at Dalhousie University. I am also involved in a few research projects and working towards publications. I intend to apply for pediatrics residency in the United States this year.
What is your intent for practicing medicine?
Medicine is not only a respectful, but also a rewarding career. Especially in pediatrics, it is indeed rewarding to see smiles on the faces of the children and parents that you have helped and you know that you have actually made a difference in their lives.
Any additional comments?
I am glad that I chose to come to Dalhousie Medical School. The learning environment in the hospital is conducive where staff physicians, residents and nurses are all supportive of your education. I feel that I am well prepared and feel confident to go into residency.
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